Disopyramide

(dye soe peer' a mide)

IMPORTANT WARNING:

Studies have shown that some antiarrhythmic drugs may increase the risk of death, especially if you have had a previous heart attack. This information also may apply to disopyramide. Disopyramide usually is used only to treat life-threatening arrhythmias.

WHY is this medicine prescribed?

Disopyramide is used to treat abnormal heart rhythms (arrhythmias). It works by making your heart more resistant to abnormal activity.

HOW should this medicine be used?

Disopyramide comes as a capsule to take by mouth. Immediate-acting disopyramide may be taken 3 to 4 times a day. The long-acting product is usually taken twice a day. Do not cut, crush, or chew extended-release capsules; swallow them whole.

Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Take disopyramide exactly as directed. Do not take more or less of it or take it more often than prescribed by your doctor.

Disopyramide helps control your condition but will not cure it. Continue to take disopyramide even if you feel well. Do not stop taking disopyramide without talking to your doctor.

Are there OTHER USES for this medicine?

This medication is sometimes prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

What SPECIAL PRECAUTIONS should I follow?

Before taking disopyramide,

tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to disopyramide or any other drugs.

tell your doctor if you have or have ever had congestive heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, kidney or liver disease, glaucoma, myasthenia gravis, urinary retention, or benign prostatic hypertrophy.

tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding. If you become pregnant while taking disopyramide, call your doctor.

talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits of taking disopyramide if you are 65 years of age or older. Older adults should not usually take disopyramide because it is not as safe or effective as other medications that can be used to treat the same condition.

if you are having surgery, including dental surgery, tell the doctor or dentist that you are taking disopyramide.

you should know that this medication may make you drowsy. Do not drive a car or operate machinery until you know how this medication affects you.

remember that alcohol can add to the drowsiness caused by this medication.

talk to your doctor about the use of cigarettes and caffeine-containing beverages. These products may increase the irritability of your heart and interfere with the action of disopyramide.

What should I do IF I FORGET to take a dose?

Take the missed dose as soon as you remember it. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.

What SIDE EFFECTS can this medicine cause?

Disopyramide may cause side effects. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away:

dizziness or lightheadedness

difficult urination

dry mouth

constipation

blurred vision

stomach pain or bloating

headache

If you experience any of the following symptoms, call your doctor immediately:

What should I know about STORAGE and DISPOSAL of this medication?

Keep this medication in the container it came in, tightly closed, and out of reach of children. Store it at room temperature and away from excess heat and moisture (not in the bathroom). Throw away any medication that is outdated or no longer needed. Talk to your pharmacist about the proper disposal of your medication.

What should I do in case of OVERDOSE?

In case of overdose, call your local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. If the victim has collapsed or is not breathing, call local emergency services at 911.

What OTHER INFORMATION should I know?

Keep all appointments with your doctor and the laboratory. Your doctor will need to determine your response to disopyramide.

Do not let anyone else take your medication. Ask your pharmacist any questions you have about refilling your prescription.

It is important for you to keep a written list of all of the prescription and nonprescription (over-the-counter) medicines you are taking, as well as any products such as vitamins, minerals, or other dietary supplements. You should bring this list with you each time you visit a doctor or if you are admitted to a hospital. It is also important information to carry with you in case of emergencies.

Brand Names

Norpace®

Norpace® CR

Also available generically

Please note, not all procedures included in this resource library are available at Henry Ford Allegiance Health or performed by Henry Ford Allegiance Health physicians.

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This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.

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